412th Civil Engineering, Environmental Management
Branch Memorial Park is an outdoor recreation area on Edwards AFB. The Management Area encompasses approximately 75 acres and is centered on Branch Memorial Park Pond, a six-acre pond that is stocked for fishing. The site is also important for natural resources management, offering an oasis in the desert that provides nesting and foraging resources for migratory and resident birds, and aquatic and riparian habitat for many other plants and animals. Tricolored blackbirds, listed as threatened in California, nest in the pond’s vegetation. Mesquite bosques are also located adjacent to the area.
The pond is stocked annually with species that can include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black crappie and channel catfish. In late July 2024 or early August 2024, largemouth bass, bluegill and redear sunfish will be stocked. Fishing is allowed all year with a State fishing license and Edwards AFB Fishing Permit being required. Fishing at Branch Pond is available to base residents and employees.
In fall of 2024, fisheries improvement projects will include creating spawning beds and brush pile structures in the pond, constructing a fishing platform, vegetation clearing and improving the oxygenation of pond. In 2025, habitat restoration projects may include stabilizing trees, adding vegetation around the pond bank and surrounding areas, and reconfiguring roads and parking areas.
In addition to fishing, Edwards AFB also has hunting opportunities for upland game and waterfowl. The base follows California state hunting regulations (including seasons and take limits); however, they may be further limited by Base regulations. There are 2 areas for upland game hunting on Edwards AFB, Bissel Hills Hunting Area 1 and Mesquite Woodlands Hunting Area 2. Upland game species authorized for hunting include black-tailed jackrabbit, desert cottontail rabbit, quail, chuckar and dove. Hunting for waterfowl occurs at the Piute Ponds Complex using designated blinds. All hunters must carry an Edwards AFB Hunting License, State hunting license and waterfowl stamp and a federal duck stamp. Waterfowl hunting is open to authorized members of the public as well as military and DoD civilians. Waterfowl blind drawing occurs virtually in September.
For more information about hunting and fishing on Edwards AFB, as well as other recreational opportunities, please visit https://edwards.isportsman.net or contact [email protected].
Fishing and hunting opportunities are available at Edwards AFB